“The incident occurred on 28 February 2016 in Limbe Township where the convict unlawfully and indecently assaulted the 16 year-old girl,” said Nhlane.

He added that the matter was reported to police who arrested Lede and charged him with indecent assault which is contrary to section 137(1) of the penal code.

On Tuesday, Lede pleaded guilty to the charge and senior resident magistrate Benson Chisakamile slapped the convict with six years imprisonment with hard labour saying the sentence will deter would be offenders.